House to the United Nations headquarters, Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland and another Swiss global city, given the large number of international companies that are present here. Together with Zurich, Geneva is another example of balanced life and high standards through culture and advanced civilization. Every year, Geneva is assaulted by thousands of tourists eager to find the secrets of one of the most reputed cities in the world. The location on the banks of the Rhone, the Geneva Lake and the vicinity of Europe’s most popular mountains, the Alps, make Geneva a great city for sports enthusiasts.
The name “Geneva” was used by the Celtic inhabitants and it meant “birth-water”, referring to the origin of the river in a lake. Geneva was mentioned by Julius Caesar in De Bello Gallico, and it was actually incorporated by the Romans in the empire as the province of Gallia Narbonensis. Contested for a long time between the Franks and the Holy Roman Emperors, Geneva became an independent republic during the Reformation. Centre to Calvinist Protestantism, it also functioned as place of refuge for many Protestants from all over Europe.
The St. Pierre Cathedral in Old Geneva used to be Calvin’s own church. Now it is a great tourist attraction that charms visitors through its eclectic style. Built in the 12th century it is supposedly much older, at least 10th or even 8th century, as archaeological digging has recently shown. In the old times the cathedral functioned not only as a place of worship, but as a place of learning as well. One of its three main areas was entirely devoted to church teachings. The premises are open for public visitation and you can enjoy a unique history lesson right on the site.
Other notable sights in Geneva include the International Museum of Reformation, a place of living memory that will definitely teach you something on Protestantism. A visit to the cathedral is almost always followed by a special Reformation Walk organized by the Museum, since the two institutions share the premises. It is an one hour guided tour that will show the traveler the historic Old City. The Reformation Wall is part of this famous tour; this is the monument that commemorates the many events of Protestant history depicting them in bas-reliefs and carved statues.
Since Geneva houses the United Nations headquarters, it’s a given that all orgainsed city tours include the Palais des Nations, a famous building that offers a truly rewarding sightseeing experience. Situated in Ariana Park, the Palace overlooks Lake Geneva and the French Alps. Many visitors are taken aback to see gorgeous peacocks roaming freely in the park, this is really one great picture. Furthermore, this same park contains a famous chalet that dates back to the middle of the 17th century. Have a look around, it’s not just impressive, it’s also very relaxing.
Geneva is a city of architectural preservation, the entire city centre is a proof of the old living style specific to the 17th century. All the modernization measures applied to the area have not spoiled in any way the city’s traditional look. Moreover, the best of Geneva’s landmarks is the Water Column, Jet d’Eau, that springs right in the middle of the Lake and is seen from considerable distance. The column is 140-metre-high and it catches the curious eye in various locations of the city.
With such a rich cultural diversity, it comes without saying that nightlife and entertainment are more than diverse. The many bars and night clubs are only matched by the very exquisite restaurants. Mention should be made that this is one of the most expensive cities in a very expensive country. However, you can’t leave without stocking up on a supply of Swiss chocolate, some of the best in the world. Another Swiss item that gets great recommendations is the local wine, not very expensive and really good.